Private Secretary (Executive Support) at Department of Internal Affairs, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

The opportunity:

We are seeking a motivated and highly organised Executive Assistant to join a busy ministerial office as a Private Secretary (Executive Support). Working in the heart of the government, you will join a tight knit and trusted team who will support the Minister as part of the 54^th Parliament. It is interesting and rewarding work, offering a unique insight into the inner workings of government in a fascinating and fast-paced environment.

As a Private Secretary (Executive Support) your new role will see you provide a range of administrative support to this busy ministerial office. In your new role you will be the 'face of the office' greeting visitors as they arrive, you'll help respond to a range of queries via email and over the phone, and in general will provide critical support in keeping things running smoothly. You could expect to draft and respond to Official Information Act requests, support with written and oral Parliamentary questions, and support with ministerial correspondence. Your role will include assistance with managing the Minister's diary, planning and booking travel. You will at times provide cover for the Senior Private Secretary, leading the wider office in the delivery of unrivalled service.

This is an events-based position based on the parliamentary term. The likely appointment range for this role is $81,441 - $90,490 per annum, with starting salaries reflecting relevant skills and experience, as well as internal parity.

What skills or experience would I need to be successful?

• Demonstrated experience in an EA / PA or team administration role
• An ability to work and problem solve at pace, with maturity and a high level of resilience
• A good knowledge of the machinery of government, OIAs, and Written or Oral Parliamentary questions would be advantageous
• Highly developed interpersonal skills with the ability to gain the confidence of the Minister and a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft programmes, you will bring your speedy typing skills, flair for multi-tasking and an eye for detail
• A passion for politics, and a desire to build your career in the heart of government

Interested? Apply today!

Please note applicants must be permanent residents or NZ Citizens and are required to obtain and maintain a national security clearance. Please assess your eligibility status using the Protective Security Requirements tool found here: https://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/personnel-security/clearances/eligibility-tool/

Applications close Wednesday 18 June 2025 however we will be assessing and interviewing suitable applicants throughout this period - early applications are encouraged. For more information, please contact ministerial.resourcing@dia.govt.nz

To review the full job description, please click here.

About us

Ministerial Resourcing is the team within the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) responsible for ensuring Ministers' offices are suitably resourced with a range of highly skilled staff, who, in turn, provide a high level of support to the Minister, and ensure the smooth day to day running of their office.

As a Ministerial office staff member, you will be employed by DIA, and supported by our dedicated team of Portfolio Managers. Our purpose is to serve and connect people, communities and Government to build a safe, prosperous and respected nation. In other words, it's all about helping to make New Zealand better for New Zealanders.